Tunisian traders protested against the suspension of their trading activities, urging government intervention to address the economic hardships caused by tighter Libyan restrictions on goods transport. They called for reciprocal trading policies to mitigate the adverse impact of these regulations on livelihoods in border communities, illustrating the trade relationship’s complexities between the two nations.
On Monday, a number of Tunisian traders staged a protest at the Bengardane municipality headquarters, situated in southern Tunisia near the Libyan border, to express their grievances regarding the ongoing suspension of their core commercial activities. The traders urged the Tunisian government to take decisive action to address the hardships faced by thousands of individuals reliant on inter-trade between Tunisia and Libya, a substantial source of income for many families engaged in smuggling fuel, electronic goods, and food items. The demonstrators, primarily consisted of smugglers who categorize themselves as “small traders,” called for the enforcement of reciprocal trading principles. They highlighted the injustice of the restrictions that prevent them from transporting goods from Libya to Tunisia while permitting the flow of Tunisian goods into Libya, including subsidized food products. Tunisian Member of Parliament Ali Zaghdoud characterized the trade conditions between Tunisia and Libya as “deplorable,” particularly affecting small traders. He noted that the cessation of trade activities since March has resulted in significant unemployment and adverse social conditions in regions such as Bengardane, impacting livelihoods reliant on this commerce. The restrictions were implemented by Libyan authorities in March, banning Tunisian motorists from transporting goods into Tunisia as part of a broader initiative aimed at combating smuggling, which has reportedly adversely affected the Libyan economy.
The protesting traders are calling attention to the severe impact of restrictive trade policies instituted by the Libyan government, which has drastically limited the flow of goods and has created economic distress within border communities. Smuggling, while often regarded as an illicit activity, has functioned as a crucial economic engine for many families living in these borderlands. The recent policy changes highlight the fragile nature of informal trade agreements between neighboring Tunisia and Libya, exacerbated by political and economic challenges.
In summary, the protest by Tunisian traders illustrates the urgent need for governmental intervention to restore trade relations between Tunisia and Libya. The restrictive measures implemented by Libya have not only disrupted economic activities but have also led to significant social challenges within local communities. Establishing reciprocal trading policies could pave the way for sustainable economic recovery and alleviate the hardships faced by those impacted by these restrictions, as emphasized by local leaders and affected individuals alike.
Original Source: libyaobserver.ly
